Bishop Museum in Honolulu, HI

We had heard of the Bishop Museum and were in the area one afternoon. So, we parked paid for the parking, noticed the sign said parking hours ended at 10 pm. So we walked up to the door. We had no idea the museum closed at 5pm. We walked in and were told there wasn't enough time to tour the museum and they wouldn't sell us a ticket. I guess it was around 4pm when we showed up. I know bad planning on our part, it turned out it was the only opportunity to visit the museum and leave. After we got back to our hotel room my wife called about a refund on the parking fee. She was told that they only give a half hour grace period to request a refund. But they were nice and refunded the parking fee anyway. We were looking forward to the visit while in town mainly because of the artifacts on display and comments made during a circle island tour about what was there to see. (an episode of the Classic 60's Hawaii FIve O might have had some influence too). Nevertheless, we didn't get in. Something to remember next time in town (if it ever happens again).

I am glad we were able to visit the Bishop Museum. The original building itself is beautiful and reminded me of the Natural History Museum in London. The Hawaiian culture is so rich and unique that it deserves at least half a day of your vacation time You may need extra time to visit separate exhibits housed in another building and/or to visit a children's section.